As the world grapples with plastic pollution, food delivery companies are making strides towards sustainability. A growing number of cities are considering laws to restrict or ban single-use plastics in take-out containers, and some restaurants have already made the switch.
The food industry’s reliance on single-use plastics has significant environmental impacts, from fueling global warming to harming wildlife and human health. Plastic production is equivalent to the emissions from 116 average-sized coal-fired power plants in 2020 alone. However, with increasing awareness, companies are finding innovative solutions.
Many restaurants are adopting reusable containers, often in partnership with local initiatives or family-style food delivery services. In Philadelphia, Tiffin chain of Indian restaurants has seen a 20% increase in monthly deliveries in its reusable containers, with customers returning nearly 90% within 30 days. DoorDash and Uber Eats are also experimenting with sustainable packaging, including green badges for participating restaurants.
While the industry still faces challenges, such as reverse logistics and policy changes, small-scale successes are being reported. Companies like DeliverZero and To Go Green are promoting reusable containers, and local initiatives are driving innovation. As consumers demand more sustainable options, food delivery companies must adapt to meet the growing need for eco-friendly practices.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2025/07/01/disposable-plastic-food-delivery-single-use